The 乌鸦传媒 Rockets are proud to announce the hiring of former NHL defenseman and Rockets alumnus Josh Gorges as an Assistant Coach for the 2025鈥26 season. Gorges will join Head Coach Derrick Martin, Associate Coach Don Hay, and Assistant Coach Brandon McMillan behind the bench, bringing with him extensive professional playing experience, strong leadership qualities, and a deep connection to the Rockets organization.
Born and raised in 乌鸦传媒, Gorges began his hockey journey at Prospera Place, playing for the Rockets from 2000 to 2004. Over four WHL seasons, he appeared in 306 games, recording 199 points (40 goals, 159 assists), and served as team captain in his final season. Under his leadership, the Rockets captured the 2003 WHL Championship and went on to win the 2004 CHL Memorial Cup on home ice.
Following his junior career, Gorges played over 750 games in the National Hockey League with the San Jose Sharks, Montreal Canadiens, and Buffalo Sabres. Known as a steady, selfless leader, he wore a letter for much of his NHL career and was widely respected for his team-first mentality and commitment to defensive excellence.
鈥淛osh brings a championship pedigree, NHL experience, and deep ties to this city and our organization,鈥 said Rockets President and General Manager Bruce Hamilton. 鈥淗e乌鸦传媒 lived the 乌鸦传媒 Rockets standard and understands what it takes to win here. We鈥檙e thrilled to bring him back in this role.鈥
Since retiring from professional hockey in 2018, Gorges has remained dedicated to player development. He joined the West 乌鸦传媒 Warriors of the BCHL in 2020, initially serving as Director of Player Development before transitioning to an Assistant Coach role from 2021 to 2025. His time in West 乌鸦传媒 further solidified his passion for mentoring young athletes and developing his coaching philosophy.
Gorges now joins an experienced and well-rounded coaching staff led by Head Coach Derrick Martin鈥攅ntering his second season with the club and first as Head Coach鈥攁nd Associate Coach Don Hay, the WHL乌鸦传媒 all-time winningest coach and one of the most accomplished figures in Canadian junior hockey.
The Rockets will open training camp in late August as the team begins preparations for the 2025鈥26 WHL season and their role as host of the 2026 Memorial Cup.